16 foot platform

 

Code Number: 1N20.15

Demo Title: Center of Mass - Platform

Condition: Excellent

Principle: Center of mass

Area of Study: Mechanics

Equipment: 

Rolling platform

Procedure:

Unfold the 16 foot platform in the lecture room.  Get on the platform at one end and start walking toward the other end.  The platform should move in the opposite direction while you remain relatively in one place.

References:

  • J. Guemez, M. Fiolhais. "'Walking' Along a Free Rotating Bicycle Wheel (Round and Round)", TPT, Vol. 53, # 2, Feb. 2015, p. 90.
  • Jason W. Dunn, "A Human Hamster Wheel?", TPT, Vol. 36 # 9, Dec. 1998, p. 545.
  • Bob Wade, "Spiraling Back" After the Holidays", TPT, Vol. 34, # 7, Oct. 1994, p. 408.
  • W.E. Scott, "Approach Times on a Moving Platform", TPT, Vol. 27, # 3, March 1989, p. 170.
  • Margaret Stautberg Greenwood, "Conservation of Momentum and the Center of Mass of a Cart-Truck System", TPT, Vol. 25, # 6, Sept. 1987, p. 370.
  • Akio Saitoh, "Conservation Of Momentum - Walking the Boat", TPT, Vol. 23, # 5, May 1985, p. 316 - 317.
  • Robert Ehrlich, "5.2, Walking the Boat", Why Toast Lands Jelly-Side Down, p. 82.
  • R. W. Pohl, "(3)", Physical Principles of Mechanics and Acoustics, p. 86.